Guided Bone Regeneration

Periodontists have traditionally treated gum disease by eliminating the gum pockets, by trimming away the infected gum tissue and by re-contouring the uneven bone tissue, commonly known as resective surgery. Although this method is still a common way of treating gum disease, today periodontists use new and more sophisticated procedures. One of these procedures is called guided bone regeneration (GBR), also referred to as guided tissue regeneration. This procedure is used to stabilize endangered teeth. This method, used in the 1980s, was the first method developed to regenerate bone, and Dr. Noraian has had extensive experience using it.

As periodontal disease progresses, pockets of degenerated bone develop in the jaw. These pockets can promote the growth of bacteria and the spread of infection. To address these pockets, Dr. Noraian may recommend GBR. During this surgical procedure, the pockets are cleaned thoroughly, bone graft material is placed in the bony defect that the disease caused, and a membrane or barrier is placed between the soft tissue and the bone graft. Some of these membranes are bio-absorbable and some require removal. The membrane covers the pocket so that fast-growing soft tissue is blocked, and slower-growing bone can begin to grow, or “regenerate” itself. A packing is placed over the surgical area. Generally, Dr. Noraian will provide prescriptions to reduce discomfort and control infection post-operatively.

Typically, the bone graft material is human donor bone that is acellular and is cadaver-sourced. Dr. Noraian only uses tissue products that follow the American Association of Tissue Banks (AATB) protocol for safety. With the material being acellular, there is no risk of rejection as the material acts like scaffolding for the depositing of new bone. Overtime, the bone integrates with your bone, and a new periodontal ligament and connective tissue attachment is created which is called new attachment.

The effectiveness of the procedure generally depends on your willingness to follow a strict post-operative diet and careful oral care. Dr. Noraian will help you determine if GBR is right for you.